Stephen Colbert Critiques Ex-Trump Official Joe Kent’s Resignation and Past Associations

Stephen Colbert, host of “The Late Show,” addressed the recent resignation of Joe Kent, former Director of the National Counterterrorism Center, offering a critical perspective on Kent’s departure and his past affiliations. Kent resigned citing concerns over the Trump administration’s war in Iran, claiming Iran posed no imminent threat to the U.S.

Kent’s Resignation and Criticism of the Iran War

Colbert began by acknowledging the attention surrounding Kent’s resignation, stating, “Yesterday, we got the resignation of Director of the National Counterterrorism Center and home perm cautionary tale, Joe Kent.” He noted Kent’s assertion that the U.S. Initiated the war in Iran due to pressure from Israel and its American lobby, as stated in his resignation letter posted on X (CBS News).

Colbert’s Scrutiny of Kent’s Background

However, Colbert cautioned against portraying Kent as a “hero,” referencing past controversies. He highlighted Kent’s failed 2022 congressional campaign and his association with individuals linked to extremist groups. According to Colbert, Kent paid Graham Jorgensen, a member of the Proud Boys, for consulting work and collaborated with Joey Gibson, founder of the Christian nationalist group Patriot Prayer (The Wrap).

Colbert also pointed out Kent’s previous claim blaming Israel for the 2003 war in Iraq. He noted that Congressman Don Bacon publicly denounced Kent’s views as antisemitic (The Wrap).

Reactions to Kent’s Resignation

Former U.N. Ambassador, and U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton suggested Kent’s resignation indicated division within President Trump’s administration regarding the Iran war (The Wrap).

Kent’s Claims About Limited Access to Trump

Joe Kent himself stated that he and other senior officials with doubts about the airstrikes “were not allowed” to share their concerns directly with President Trump (AP News).

Kent’s Stance on Iran

Kent maintained that Iran did not present an imminent threat to the United States, contradicting President Trump’s justification for the airstrikes (CBS News).